False spring teased us for a minute last week. The sun was out. Walks were a little more fragrant. Then the cold returned.
As the weather starts to change, our bodies can struggle to adjust to shifts in the temperature and environment. It is important to pay attention to how you’re feeling and take part in a bit of self care. One of my favorite ways to stay on top of my health is to make and drink fresh teas. Tonics, really. My friends call them my “witches brews” and always ask for another glass. I have a few different recipes I make depending on the time of year and what my body needs. This combination is one of my favorites for late winter/early spring. Feel free to adjust for taste: get creative - and know that nothing is set in stone.

Be gentle with yourself. Take a walk. And enjoy the tea!

X P

Heat 4 cups of fresh water to a boil.

Into a heatproof pitcher, jar or pot, place:

One 2-inch knob of fresh turmeric root, rinsed and sliced thin.
One 2-inch knob of fresh ginger root, rinsed and sliced thin.
4-5 sprigs fresh thyme, rinsed.
2-3 Tablespoons dried licorice root.
1 Tablespoon bruised black peppercorns.
Sliced orange, including peel. I used half of a medium sized orange.
Sliced lemon, including peel. I used a quarter of a medium sized lemon.

Place all of the above into your pot, jar or pitcher. Pour hot water over everything and let it steep for at least 5 minutes. At that point I will pour my first cup, keep the rest in the pitcher with the ingredients, and then continue to drink the rest of the tea throughout the day. It will not become bitter, only more flavorful and invigorating.

It is great both warm and cold.

TURMERIC:
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, good for heart health, mood-boosting, bolstering brain function.

GINGER:
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, aids in digestion, helps buffer the effects of stress on the body, aids in blood sugar regulation.

THYME:
Immunity and mood-boosting, lowers blood pressure, supports good upper respiratory health, high in vitamin C.

LICORICE ROOT:
Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, aids in healing upper respiratory disruptions, aids in digestion.

BLACK PEPPERCORNS:
Companion spice for turmeric, helps boost turmeric’s healthful properties by increasing absorption of beneficial nutrients, full of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, aids in blood sugar control.

ORANGES:
Helps protect cells from damage, promotes healthy collagen production, assists the body in absorbing iron, immunity-boosting, high in vitamin C.

LEMONS:
Mood-boosting, high in vitamin C.